Reserve CE Squadron Inactivates

  • Published
  • By Maj. Carla Gleason
  • 477th Fighter Group Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  The 477th Civil Engineer Squadron marked the end of a long, storied history during an inactivation ceremony here June 8.

"This should be a moment of pride for members past and present," said Col. David Piffarerio, 477th Fighter Group commander and presiding officer for the inactivation. "You'll always have your memories and war stories about being part of something special."

Remaining squadron members stood in formation as Lt. Col. Michael Forcht furled and capped the guidon, marking the end of more than 70 years of continued service for the squadron.

"I couldn't be prouder of our history," said Forcht. "This is a great group of folks who showed the upmost integrity and went above and beyond in everything they did."

The 477th Civil Engineer Squadron began its history as the 804th Engineering Brigade July 21, 1941 based out of Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. Their mission was to build, maintain and repair the Air Forces in the Pacific during World War II, and they were the first group of engineers to begin recovery operations following the attack on Pearl Harbor.

More recently, members of the 477th Civil Engineer Squadron deployed to combat zones, participated in Operational Readiness Inspections, built and repaired facilities across the nation and garnered multiple unit and individual awards. 

"Today we lose many dedicated Airmen and friends with whom we have been honored to serve," said Lt. Col. Patrick Travers, 477th Fighter Group chaplain. "They have served in defense of our nation in countless ways ... inspiring and empowering us to build upon them in the future."